Peer-to-peer (P2P) lending, also known as social lending or crowdlending, is a method of debt financing that enables individuals to borrow and lend money without the use of an official financial institution as an intermediary. P2P lending platforms connect borrowers directly with lenders, allowing individuals to access funding that may not be available through traditional banks or credit unions. This form of lending typically takes place online, with borrowers creating a listing for the amount of money they need and the interest rate they are willing to pay. Lenders can then review these listings and choose to invest in loans that match their risk tolerance and financial goals. P2P lending has gained popularity in recent years as an alternative investment option with the potential for high returns and lower fees compared to traditional lending institutions. However, it also carries inherent risks, such as the potential for loan defaults and limited regulatory oversight.